KABUL- As we commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we are reminded of a simple but powerful truth: persons with disabilities are an essential part of Afghanistan’s social fabric.

Their voices, contributions, and rights must be observed. They are not only beneficiaries but agents of social, cultural and economic development.  As world leaders agreed in Doha last month, inclusive societies are important for advancing social progress.

Decades of conflict, displacement, drought, and weak health and economic systems have contributed to a high prevalence of disability across the country. Yet behind every statistic is a person—someone who is not only navigating their own challenges but is often a vital source of support for their families and communities. Their resilience underscores the urgent responsibility we all share to ensure that persons with disabilities are empowered, protected, and provided with equitable opportunities.

Data indicates that nearly one-fourth of Afghans (24.6%) live with mild disabilities, while 40% experience moderate disabilities, and close to 13.9% face severe forms. These figures compel us to act with greater urgency and commitment. Persons with disabilities must not be treated as an afterthought; they must be fully integrated into every stage of planning, decision-making, and service delivery.

“In all of our activities and projects, we ensure that persons with disabilities are reached and are supported to realize their full potential”, said Indrika Ratwatte, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator.  “Ensuring the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all spheres of life is an important step to help build a peaceful, fair and prosperous Afghanistan”.

The United Nations in Afghanistan continues to implement its Disability Inclusion Strategy, a comprehensive policy and accountability framework designed to strengthen disability-inclusive approaches across all UN agencies, funds and programmes. This strategy lays the foundation for sustainable, transformative change, ensuring that disability inclusion is not symbolic but embedded in every programme, partnership, and initiative.

Today is not just about challenges; it is about potential, leadership, and the right of every individual to participate fully in society. Local disability-led organisations continue to be a source of innovation, hope, and expertise.

Today, we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for the rights of all persons with disabilities in Afghanistan. Their inclusion strengthens communities, drives resilience, and paves the way for a more equitable future for the entire nation.